Missions

The Oshkosh Area Community Pantry continues to serve as the largest hunger relief program in Southern Winnebago County. Throughout 2023, OACP served an average of 2,200 households or just under 6,000 people a month totaling 2,000,000 pounds of food distributed for the year. Pantry usage in 2023 saw an increase of households and total people served by 40%. Additionally, we have seen an increase in new registrants by 70%. Our dignified guest shopping experience and the power of choice in selecting foods best for guests and their families is a staple of our store. Rising costs in both food and everyday life and the reduction of Foodshare benefits have forced many families to choose where to spend their money and, in some cases, go without. OACP is here to supply relief to those families, so they don’t have to sacrifice their food/nutrition needs over other essentials to support their families.

Already in 2024 OACP is remaining consistent in each of these areas compared to 2023. 793 new registrants have already signed up, we are averaging 2,300 households a month, and we have distributed almost 1.5 million pounds of food. Based on early indicators, OACP will continue to see very high numbers of shoppers.

Here is a story that came directly from one of our guests: “Coming to the food pantry has been such a wonderful blessing! Being a single mother & working 2-3 jobs, constantly struggling to make all ends meet is the biggest stressor in my life. Being able to save money on groceries and coming to the pantry has been so extremely helpful for me and my family; not only financially but also mentally and emotionally. It’s such a HUGE relief when I am able to get ground beef and chicken, fresh fruits and veggies, items that will last in my freezer, occasional goodies for my kids, and sometimes hygiene products or pet food that can save me a nice chunk of money for the month. It truly helps to lift a constant weight I carry on my shoulders. Words can not begin to express my gratitude for EACH and every volunteer who helps out so many people in need! I’m very certain ALL of you do not get to hear and feel all of the many Thank you’s that you deserve - I thank you all from the bottom of my heart! You do sooo much more than what you realize - you truly make people’s day, week, month, and years! Every little bit of what you do here helps sooo many who are in need and it's so much more than being able to provide a meal or two, or ten.

It’s making families feel at peace; not having to worry about how they are going to be able to pay for groceries, lifting a burden, it’s making family feel like family! The Oshkosh Area Community Pantry literally makes me feel happier and less stressed, which in turn, makes me a better version of myself! Much love and Gratitude!”